Social Media Dos and Don’ts for Job Seekers

Social media is a great way to connect with your friends or share content you find interesting, but you need to be aware that some employers are reviewing applicants’ profiles. A candidate could potentially lose out on an opportunity if an employer finds that you post material that is considered inappropriate. Following are some tips on what to do and what not to do on social media while you are on the job hunt.

Dos

• Watch your language: While welding is not an office job where you have to write lengthy reports or give extended presentations all the time, poor language such as excessive swearing or incorrect grammar can still look unprofessional. Moreover, insulting or mocking others on social media can also leave a bad impression with potential employers.
• Follow industry leaders/companies you want to work for: This is a great way to find potential job openings. Nowadays, many employers post their openings on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Furthermore, following industry leaders allows you keep abreast of the latest developments in welding, which can help you with your job search.
• Build your brand: Social media these days is all about branding, whether you are a business or an individual. An easy way to brand yourself as a skilled welder is to share articles about your industry or post pictures of your work. This demonstrates enthusiasm for your job and expertise in your field. Just make sure to remain genuine and consistent.
• Use keywords: Consider including job-relevant keywords. For example, you could put “Certified Welder” or “Rig Welder” in your profile bio. Another way to use keywords is in your actual posts, so you may want to share an article about the skills gap and write, “The construction industry is in need of certified welders.” Keywords can help employers or recruiters find you.

Don’ts

• Post inappropriate photos: This may seem obvious, but you don’t want potential employers to see any inappropriate pictures of you. This can include nudity, drug and alcohol use, criminal activities, or racially insensitive behavior. To be sure, comb through all your social media profiles and remove any such posts.
• Post extremist statements: Social media is commonly used as a platform for expression. However, employers may not want to hire you if you exhibit extreme political or religious statements that could make coworkers or clients feel uncomfortable or even unsafe.
• Badmouth past/current employers or colleagues: This is a major red flag for anybody looking to hire. Complaining about employers or colleagues on social media makes you look difficult to work with. Similarly, avoid complaining about how bored you are at work.
• Pretend to be someone you are not: Social media can make it easy for people to create a certain persona, but be careful not to stretch the truth. Many aspects about your background like your past employment can easily be checked with a few phone calls, so resist the urge to “pad” your credentials to make you look better. ¹

Your social media profiles can be an effective supplement to your resume and cover letter. However, you may prefer to use social media for private purposes and feel uncomfortable with the idea of employers or recruiters going through your profiles. In this case, consider creating a separate professional account or using specific networks for work purposes only. ² In any case, sensible management is the key to a compelling social media presence.

1 – https://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/facebook-dos-and-donts-for-job-seekers/
2 – https://www.lifewire.com/social-networking-strategies-for-personal-and-professional-use-2378017